The opening matches of the playoffs for the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarterfinals delivered excitement, featuring a total of 16 goals scored throughout four encounters this week.
Defending champions Arsenal secured a commanding position with a 4-0 victory against Oud-Heverlee Leuven. Similarly, Manchester United, another Women’s Super League contender, also looks well-positioned after their 3-0 win over Atlético Madrid.
The remaining two matchups are more competitive: Real Madrid triumphed 3-2 against Paris FC, but a late goal from their French rivals leaves an opening for a turnaround. Meanwhile, two-time European champions VfL Wolfsburg and Juventus fought to a 2-2 stalemate in Germany.
Check out the insights from ESPN analysts Emily Keogh, Alex Kirkland, and Connor O’Halloran as they address some critical questions.
Q1: Arsenal have found form at the right time. Is it enough to defend their UWCL title?
Keogh: Arsenal seems to be hitting their peak after a rocky start to the season. As reigning champions, they anticipated a smoother path to the finals, but earlier inconsistencies forced them into a more challenging position. The winter break allowed for strategic adjustments, resulting in a revitalized squad eager to compete for the WSL title and maintain momentum for their playoff matches. Although there’s a significant gap to WSL leaders Manchester City, this could ultimately benefit their European ambitions, as sacrificing the domestic title may be necessary to defend their UWCL crown.
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Arsenal demolishes OH Leuven 4-0 in knockout playoff first leg.
Arsenal defeats OH Leuven 4-0 in the first leg of the Women’s Champions League knockout playoffs.
Kirkland: While Arsenal’s path forward may still be steep, it’s clear they possess the capacity to contend for the UWCL title this season. Historically, title-winning teams often find their rhythm between February and May, and recent performances suggest Arsenal is gaining that momentum. With a focus on the UWCL, they may find success in this competition, especially with a quarterfinal match against Chelsea, which will be a significant test.
O’Halloran: Just a few weeks ago, Arsenal’s future seemed uncertain. However, they’ve successfully navigated a demanding schedule and emerged stronger, securing a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals, along with celebrating victory in the inaugural FIFA Champions Cup. Their recent performances mirror their late resurgence last season, showing they can defeat formidable opponents.
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Real Madrid comes from behind to win playoffs first leg vs. Paris FC.
Real Madrid defeats Paris FC 3-2 in the first leg of the Women’s Champions League knockout playoffs.
Q2: Real Madrid came from behind to beat Paris FC. Are they finally showing an elite mentality?
Keogh: Real Madrid’s past performances in Europe have not matched their stature, with repeated failures to progress beyond the quarterfinals often attributed to a lack of composure in critical moments. They have been unable to escape the group stage in consecutive seasons and last year surrendered a 2-0 lead in the quarterfinals to Arsenal. This pattern raises questions about whether they have truly learned from past mistakes. A late concession could hinder their progress again.
To be considered a team with an elite mentality, they need to showcase greater resilience and control. While they have demonstrated their ability to win tough matches, consistency remains an issue, as shown by occasional lapses in focus that undermine their efforts.
Kirkland: Madrid displayed commendable character to turn the match around after falling behind early. Their ability to build a commanding lead was impressive, though conceding the late goal may be a missed opportunity. Previous seasons might not have seen them rise to such a position during a match.
O’Halloran: There’s merit both ways regarding their elite mentality, but conceding a late goal from a 3-1 lead suggests they’re still honing their game. The weakness was evident with Maeline Mendy‘s late strike for Paris FC, a result of too slow a reaction from a defensive line that should have been aware of the situation. Credit to them for coming back, yet they still face a fight for progression.
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Wolfsburg stuns Juventus with a late equalizer in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Wolfsburg scores in stoppage time to salvage a draw against Juventus in their UEFA Women’s Champions League knockout playoff clash.
Q3: The knockout phase often brings standout performances. Who impressed you the most in the playoff first-leg matches?
Keogh: Jess Park has emerged as a key player for United since her summer signing. Although she didn’t score, her relentless work ethic and ability to create chances have been crucial to United’s success, enabling her teammates to find the back of the net.
Kirkland: I’m always excited to watch Linda Caicedo. Her immense talent has made her a game-changer for Real Madrid, as evidenced by her involvement in crucial plays against Paris. Her ability to maneuver the ball, coupled with precise passing and finishing, makes her a player to watch.
O’Halloran: Let’s give credit to Melvine Malard for her outstanding performance in Madrid. She was integral in all three of United’s goals, assisting on two and scoring one herself with a beautifully executed curling shot. Her contributions have been significant, demonstrating her impact on the game.
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Manchester United easily defeats Atletico Madrid in the playoff first leg.
Manchester United secures a 3-0 victory against Atletico Madrid in their UEFA Women’s Champions League knockout playoff clash.
Q4: With Manchester United poised to advance to the quarterfinals in their first-ever UWCL, does their debut status make a difference?
Keogh: Manchester United has surprised many this season. Returning to top-flight football in 2018, their potential advancement to the Champions League quarterfinals is noteworthy. Their underdog status has served them well, particularly in a new competition format that favors less experienced teams.
Kirkland: It’s worth noting that Atlético Madrid’s recent form has been concerning, with heavy defeats affecting their standing. While United’s 3-0 victory is commendable, their performance should be evaluated in the context of their opponent’s struggles. Nonetheless, United’s coaching and team dynamics have impressed me; they aren’t likely to be hindered by their debut status.
O’Halloran: Manchester United’s hair-raising celebrations, including unique hairstyles post-goal, reflect their current confidence, as seen in their unbeaten streak. This light-hearted display, particularly Terland’s early strike, showcases the team’s positive vibe. Although they’re debuting in the UWCL, their lack of historical pressure could actually work in their favor.